About
This tuberous perennial with long stalked, deeply lobed, dark green leaves and branched flower stems with one to four large red, cup-shaped, double flowers in spring and summer.
About the genus
Ranunculus can be annuals, biennials, evergreen or herbaceous perennials, with rhizomes, tubers or spreading by runners. The leaves are variable but often palmately lobed or dissected and the flowers usually bowl-shaped
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin irritant - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationRequires a dry, dormant period in summer; grows best in a mix of equal parts of loam, leaf mould and grit under unheated glass in winter, with good light and ventilation.
PruningNo pruning required other than removing spent flowers
PropagationPropagate by seed but generally better results are achieved from tubers
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphid, slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews and grey moulds